β³ A fantastic day at Riversdale Golf Club Monday for the 47th annual Mayor of Monash Charity Golf Day!
ππ A $1.8 million upgrade for community sport in Monash!
Iβm horrified by the news that Federal MP Helen Haines has been injured in Wangaratta today.
π A fantastic night celebrating our local businesses at the 2026 Monash Business Awards Gala!
π October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. It was great to attend the annual Pink Ribbon Breakfast hosted by Steve Dimopoulos.
β³ 24 years in the making!
π΄ββοΈπ³ Have your say on the future of Stan Riley Reserve in Oakleigh South!
πΏπ $200,000 for KooyongKoot (Gardiners Creek)!
π¨π¦πΊ Behind the scenes of Australiaβs emergency response!
π¨π¦πΊ Behind the scenes of Australiaβs emergency response!
π¦π³ Got fruit trees at home? Check your netting!
π¬π·π¦πΊ ΞΞ½Ξ± μΡγάλο Ξ΅Ο
ΟΞ±ΟΞΉΟΟΟ ΟΟΞΏΞ½ ΞΞ»Ξ»Ξ·Ξ½ΞΉΞΊΟ Ξ£Ολλογο ΞλικιΟΞΌΞΞ½ΟΞ½ ΦάΟΞΏΟ!
ππ± Monash is Australiaβs MobileMuster champion!
βΎ Great news for Waverley Baseball Club!
A great night celebrating some very talented writers at the Monash Short Story Competition Awards at the historic Oakleigh Hall.
A fantastic morning celebrating the Victorian Seniors Festival and Mid-Autumn Festival with the Monash Chinese Senior Friendship Association in Ashwood!
A wonderful afternoon in Huntingdale yesterday for the official opening of the Shri Sankat Mochan Navdurga Temple!
Welcome to the family Sock π
Back at a local favourite, @temperance_society βοΈ
A wonderful evening celebrating Durga Puja with the Aurora Bengali Association at Clayton Hall tonight!
Great to be joined by Cr Shane McCluskey for an event that has been bringing our community together for almost five decades, raising funds for two very worthwhile causes.
Organised by the combined Rotary Clubs of Monash, all proceeds from the day will support the Monash Childrenβs Cancer Ward and the Cerebral Palsy Education Centre (CPEC) in Glen Waverley.
CPEC does incredible work supporting children with cerebral palsy, despite receiving limited funding from State and Federal Governments.
Iβve had the pleasure of meeting many children from CPEC over the years, and despite the physical challenges they face, some are among the smartest young people Iβve ever met.
I met Jade Gray, a passionate Melbourne supporter, which was clearly a sign of her superior intellect! β€οΈπ We had a great chat, bonding over shared memories and people we both know. A lovely reminder that physical limitations have absolutely nothing to do with intelligence or personality.
A huge thank you to the Rotarians who put so much time and effort into organising this event each year, along with the sponsors, volunteers and everyone who took part.
π 47 years of giving back to our community is something worth celebrating!
@cpec.therapy @monashcouncil
Last week we officially opened the newly reconstructed South Oval at Central Reserve in Glen Waverley, following a major $1.8 million redevelopment.
Monash Council contributed $1.5 million towards the project, with the Victorian Government providing a further $300,000.
The works included a complete reconstruction of the oval, new drainage and irrigation systems, 10 turf cricket wicket strips, new fencing and improved access.
While some of these improvements might not be immediately obvious, theyβll make a huge difference to the clubs that use the ground, particularly during Melbourneβs wetter months when grounds can become unplayable.
The oval is home to Richmond Cricket Club, Mazenod Old Collegians Football Club and Mazenod Panthers All Abilities Football Club, supporting hundreds of local players across both summer and winter.
It was great to join John Mullahy MP, fellow Councillors and representatives from the clubs to officially open the ground.
A big thank you to the clubs for their patience during construction, and particularly to the volunteers, coaches and families who give so much of their time to keep community sport running. π
Looking forward to seeing the oval enjoyed by our community for many years to come!
We are all entitled to our own views and opinions, and we are entitled to disagree, sometimes strongly. But we must respect the right of others to hold different views.
We all need to dial the temperature down.
Political debate has become increasingly hostile, particularly on social media. We can disagree without being abusive, challenge ideas without attacking people, and debate passionately without losing respect for one another.
There is no place for violence, threats or intimidation in our democracy.
Democracy depends on more than the right to have our say. It depends on our willingness to listen, to respect differences and to resolve disagreements peacefully. These are values we must all stand up for, regardless of our political views. If we lose that respect for one another, we undermine the very democracy we are so fortunate to live in.
My thoughts are with Helen, her family and her staff tonight. I wish her a full and speedy recovery.
Congratulations to all the category winners and finalists. Itβs great to see the hard work, dedication and success of businesses across Monash recognised.
A special congratulations to this yearβs winners:
π Business of the Year: Novotel Glen Waverley
π Rising Star: The Splendor Homes
π
The Matt Dunn Award: Mana Fitness Solutions
π½οΈ Hospitality: Novotel Melbourne Glen Waverley
π©Ί Health & Science: Victorian Hearing
πͺ Micro Business: Waverley Gardens Vet
π€ Not for Profit: Monash Menβs Shed
πΌ Professional Services: Topmigrationaustralia
Our local businesses are a huge part of what makes Monash such a great place to live and work. They create jobs, support our local economy and contribute so much to our community.
A big thank you to the Monash Business Association for organising another wonderful evening and for the work they do supporting our local business community.
Congratulations again to everyone recognised! π
@cr.elishalee
Iβve attended every one of these breakfasts over the past decade, apart from when COVID prevented them from going ahead.
Itβs always a great event, but behind the pink decorations and delicious food is a very serious message.
π 1 in 7 Australian women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime.
In Australia, more than 20,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer each year, and around 3,300 lose their lives to this disease.
The good news is that early detection and improvements in treatment have made a huge difference, with the five-year survival rate now at 93%.
Ladies, please donβt put off getting checked. Early detection can save your life.
β
Women aged 50β74 are encouraged to have a FREE breast screen every two years.
β
Women aged 40β49 and over 74 can also access free screening and should speak with their doctor about whether itβs right for them.
β
If you notice any unusual changes, donβt wait for your next screening appointment. See your GP.
π Book through BreastScreen Victoria on 13 20 50 or visit www.breastscreen.org.au.
A big thank you to @steve_dimopoulos for continuing to host this important event and helping keep breast cancer awareness front of mind.
π A few minutes of your time could save your life.
Yesterday I joined Waverley Softball Association for the opening of a time capsule buried back in 2002 during the Melbourne World Masters Games!
The 2002 Games were a massive event for Melbourne, bringing together almost 25,000 athletes competing across 26 sports, including softball.
Deputy Mayor Elisha Lee joined me, along with representatives from Softball Victoria and players and committee members from 2002, to take a trip down memory lane.
It was great to look back at a piece of our local sporting history and reflect on just how much has changed over the past 24 years.
What hasnβt changed is the dedication of the volunteers, players and families who keep community sport alive.
A big thank you to everyone at Waverley Softball for inviting us along and for continuing to build on the associationβs proud history.
Hereβs to the next 24 years!
@waverleysoftball @softball_vic @cr.elishalee
Stan Riley Reserve is home to Monashβs only BMX track, and weβre looking at ways to improve the reserve for riders, young people, families and everyone who uses it.
Weβve released an early concept plan showing what the future of the reserve could look like, including a new BMX/pump track, multipurpose court, ninja course, public toilet, picnic areas, improved pathways and more landscaping.
But these are just early ideas, and we want to hear what YOU think!
Whether youβre a BMX rider, a local resident or someone who enjoys spending time at the reserve, now is your chance to help shape its future.
π¬ Have your say online through Shape Monash until Sunday 13 December 2026.
π Come and speak with Council officers in person at Stan Riley Reserve, Centre Road, Oakleigh South:
π
Saturday 24 October, 1pm to 3pm
π
Sunday 15 November, 1pm to 3pm
π΄ Weβre also looking for riders interested in joining a track design focus group.
The plans arenβt final, and your feedback will help determine what the reserve looks like in the future.
Iβd encourage everyone who uses the reserve to take a look at the concept plans and share their thoughts.
π Link to the plans and consultation in my bio!
Great to see the Victorian Government commit $200,000 to support KooyongKoot, an important environmental corridor running through Melbourneβs eastern suburbs.
KooyongKoot, meaning Land of the Waterfowl, is the traditional name for Gardiners Creek. Its catchment covers 112 square kilometres, providing vital habitat for wildlife, green open spaces and recreational opportunities for our communities.
It was great to join Matt Fregon MP, who announced the funding commitment, alongside Boroondara Mayor Wes Gault and Deputy Mayor Shima Ibuki, the Mayor of Whitehorse and Stonnington Councillor Kate Hely to celebrate this commitment.
π€ Our environment doesnβt stop at Council boundaries, and neither should our efforts to protect it.
Through the Gardiners Creek Regional Collaboration, five councils, government agencies, community groups and other organisations are working together to improve water quality, restore native vegetation, protect biodiversity and create healthier waterways.
A great example of regional collaboration delivering better environmental outcomes for our communities. π³π¦
Recently, I had the opportunity to visit the National Situation Room at the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) in Canberra, alongside my fellow Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) Board members.
The National Situation Room operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, monitoring emergencies and disasters across Australia and internationally, including bushfires, floods, cyclones and other major crises.
π One of the most interesting things I learnt was that NEMA doesnβt have its own geographical jurisdiction when it comes to responding to emergencies.
Unlike our state and territory emergency services, NEMA doesnβt simply take control when a disaster strikes. Its role is to coordinate Commonwealth assistance, generally when requested by a state or territory government.
Internationally, NEMA can only become involved in disaster response efforts when assistance is requested by the affected country. A recent example was the devastating floods in Nepal, where Australians were among those caught up in the disaster, but NEMA had to wait for an official request before becoming involved in the emergency response.
Itβs an interesting feature of our federal system. Even during major disasters, responsibility for the response remains with the relevant jurisdiction, with NEMA helping to bring together the resources and capabilities of the Australian Government when needed.
ποΈ For local government, this coordination is particularly important. Councils are often on the frontline of disasters, supporting our communities during emergencies and dealing with the recovery long after the immediate danger has passed.
A fascinating opportunity to see how Australiaβs national emergency coordination works and the people and technology behind it.
Thanks to the NEMA team for hosting us!
Recently, I had the opportunity to visit the National Situation Room at the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) in Canberra, alongside my fellow Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) Board members.
The National Situation Room operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, monitoring emergencies and disasters across Australia and internationally, including bushfires, floods, cyclones and other major crises.
π One of the most interesting things I learnt was that NEMA doesnβt have its own geographical jurisdiction when it comes to responding to emergencies.
Unlike our state and territory emergency services, NEMA doesnβt simply take control when a disaster strikes. Its role is to coordinate Commonwealth assistance, generally when requested by a state or territory government.
Internationally, NEMA can only become involved in disaster response efforts when assistance is requested by the affected country. A recent example was the devastating floods in Nepal, where Australians were among those caught up in the disaster, but NEMA had to wait for an official request before becoming involved in the emergency response.
Itβs an interesting feature of our federal system. Even during major disasters, responsibility for the response remains with the relevant jurisdiction, with NEMA helping to bring together the resources and capabilities of the Australian Government when needed.
ποΈ For local government, this coordination is particularly important. Councils are often on the frontline of disasters, supporting our communities during emergencies and dealing with the recovery long after the immediate danger has passed.
A fascinating opportunity to see how Australiaβs national emergency coordination works and the people and technology behind it.
Thanks to the NEMA team for hosting us!
Did you know that some types of fruit tree netting are actually illegal in Victoria? Older netting with larger holes can trap and seriously injure birds, possums and flying foxes.
β»οΈ Monash residents can bring their old netting to the Monash Recycling and Waste Centre and swap it for wildlife-safe netting for FREE!
And the old netting wonβt go to waste. Weβve organised for it to be recycled into carpet underlay.
Recently I caught up with Kristy, our Manager Sustainable Monash, to see the program in action.
π¦ Protect your fruit, protect our wildlife and keep the old netting out of landfill. Win, win, win!
A great morning yesterday at the Faros Greek Senior Club in Mount Waverley, joining @mattfregonmp for their Greek Handcrafts and Cultural Items Exhibition!
Members brought along some wonderful family heirlooms, handmade items and treasures passed down through generations, each with its own story and connection to Greek culture. πΊ
One item that particularly caught my attention was the Pythagoras Cup, an ancient Greek invention designed to teach moderation when drinking. Fill it too high and the entire contents drain out! π·
A lesson my wife has been trying to teach me for many years, with limited success. π
A big thank you to Rev Dr Steve Kasambalis, Club President George Aggelidis and all the members for the warm welcome and for sharing these wonderful pieces of Greek history and culture with us. β€οΈ
This year, Monash has taken out the top spot in the MobileMuster Local Government Awards for our efforts recycling old mobile phones and accessories.
A huge thank you to everyone in our community who dropped off their old phones for recycling. Itβs a simple thing to do, but collectively it makes a real difference by keeping valuable materials in use and electronic waste out of landfill. β»οΈ
I caught up with Trav, our Waste Services Coordinator, to check out the trophy and celebrate a great result!
Well done Monash! ππ
Back in March, I received a letter from 12-year-old Nathaniel Keys asking Council to upgrade the clubβs ageing batting cages.
A few weeks later, I attended the clubβs presentation night and learnt about the years of advocacy behind this project. The designs were complete, but funding was still needed.
After discussions with Council officers and lobbying local State MP John Mullahy, Iβm delighted that Council has secured a $450,000 Victorian Government grant!
John and I were at the club on Saturday to announce the funding.
Thereβs still a $750,000 shortfall, which will be considered as part of Councilβs upcoming 2027/28 budget. No guarantees, but Iβm confident weβll get this across the line.
A great example of what can happen when young people speak up. Well done Nathaniel, and everyone at Waverley Baseball Club who has pushed for this project over many years!
@monashcouncil @waverleybaseballclub @johnmullahymp
This year marks 30 years of the competition, and it was terrific to recognise the creativity and hard work of writers across all age groups.
Congratulations to our three First Place winners:
π Category A, ages 12 to 14: Ker She Poon for The Colour of Memory
π Category B, ages 15 to 17: Selma Jia for Before It Gets Cold
(Selma wasnβt able to join us on the night)
π Category C, Adults: Bella Campbell for The Murmuration
Oakleigh Hall turns 120 this year, which made it a particularly fitting place to celebrate writing, ideas and creativity in a building that has been part of community life in Oakleigh for generations.
Congratulations as well to all of our Second Place, Third Place and Highly Commended recipients, and to every one of the 124 writers who entered this year.
A big thank you to our Monash Library team, judges and everyone involved in making the competition such an important part of WordFest each year.
Great to join local Member for Ashwood, Matt Fregon MP, and so many members of our Chinese community for the celebrations.
Groups like this play such an important role in bringing people together, building friendships and helping older residents stay socially connected.
A big thank you to President Mr Gao, the committee and all the volunteers for the wonderful work you do in our community!
It was a pleasure to join members of our local Hindu community to celebrate this special occasion. A big thank you to the Mayor of Glen Eira, Cr Dr Simone Zmood, for joining me.
Places of worship are about much more than faith. They bring people together, provide support and create a sense of belonging.
Congratulations to Vikas Bhardwaj and everyone involved in bringing this temple to life. I hope it serves our community for generations to come!
Steak sandwich for lunch. Absolutely delicious.
Might have to visit the gym after this oneβ¦ π
Monash is one of the most culturally diverse communities in Australia, and events like this are a fantastic opportunity to share and celebrate the many cultures and traditions that make our city so special.
A big thank you to President Sudoti Roy and the entire team for the invitation and a fantastic evening of music, dance and celebration!
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